Kevin M. Burke, Chair, Greenway Conservancy for the Hudson River Valley,

Co-Chair, Maurice D. Hinchey Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area

Margaretta “Meg” Downey, Chair, Hudson River Valley Greenway Communities Council, Co-Chair, Maurice D. Hinchey Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area

Elizabeth Campochiaro, Interim Executive Director, Hudson River Valley Greenway,

Interim Director, Maurice D. Hinchey Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area 

Important Reminders

• Greenway Planning and Trail Grant Applications are Due Through Our Online Grants Platform by May 3 and September 6, 2024. More Details.

• HRVG's Board Meeting is on June 12, 2024, at the Henry A. Wallace Center in Hyde Park and by Zoom. Email hrvg@hudsongreenway.ny.gov to RSVP.

HRVG Releases the 2023 Hudson River Valley Greenway Trail Visitation Report

The Hudson River Valley Greenway (HRVG) released the 2023 Hudson River Valley Greenway Trail Visitation Report. The report includes visitation numbers to twenty-six different trail sections on the Hudson River Valley Greenway Trail (HRVG Trail) using automated counters to detect users.

In 2021, HRVG launched a long-term initiative to gather data on the public’s use of the HRVG Trail. HRVG and partner organizations utilize automated trail counters installed for 12-month periods to collect detailed trail visitation data. 

This “Year-Two” report presents annual trail use data for 26 locations along the 275-mile Hudson River Valley Greenway Trail. In total, 2.06 million visits were counted across the 26 sites. Annual visitation averaged 79,200 per site, demonstrating the trail’s widespread popularity. Counts varied widely – from 10,291 visits on the Champlain Canalway Trail in Fort Ann in Washington County, to 567,679 visits at the Walkway Over the Hudson State Park in Poughkeepsie – reflecting the trail’s ever-changing character as it runs through rural landscapes, historic villages, suburban areas, and densely populated cities. The body of this report presents monthly and annual trail counts for each site, along with an analysis of seasonal and daily trail use trends.

The 2.06 million annual visits counted at 26 specific locations capture only a fraction of total visitation to the HRVG Trail. The data doesn’t provide a sufficient number of sample points to develop an estimate of total visitation to the entire 275-mile route. The full report can be found on HRVG's website.

Submit Your Ramble Events Now!

Event registration is open for the 2024 Hudson River Valley Ramble! We are once again inviting heritage sites, municipalities, organizations, businesses, individuals, and more to be our partners in this regional event!

The Hudson River Valley Ramble is an annual event series during the month of September that celebrates the history, culture, and natural resources of the Maurice D. Hinchey Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area, as well as the amazing landscape, communities, and trails throughout the region.

Event registration is open to the 14 counties in the geographic area of the Hudson River Valley Greenway and Maurice D. Hinchey Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area for August 31st and any day during the month of September. There will be a limited print of guidebooks this year, and the events will be listed on our website. Submit your events now!

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to email us at Ramble@HudsonGreenway.ny.gov or give us a call at (518) 473-3835.

Ceiling Collapses at Boscobel's Library

On April 22, 2024, Boscobel House and Gardens announced that the plaster ceiling in its historic library room collapsed, without warning. No one was harmed or in the building at the time of the collapse, but the incident caused major damage, to the room, its contents, and adjacent rooms.

Boscobel has been working alongside a team of engineers, art conservators, and the municipal Buildings Department to assess the building and collection, and determine the exact cause of the collapse.

Due to the circumstances, House visitation is suspended but the gardens, grounds, and Visitor Center remain fully open during public hours Fridays-Mondays. Boscobel foresees no disruption to the weekly farmers’ market, outdoor programming, private events, or the annual Chamber Music Festival.

Visit the Bosobel House and Gardens Library Recovery Page for updates and to find out how you can help. Read the full press release.

Take a Survey on the Proposed Beacon-Hopewell Rail Trail



The Dutchess County Transportation Council is evaluating the feasibility of constructing a 13-mile multi-use rail trail along the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s Beacon Line. 

The Beacon Line runs between the Hudson River in the City of Beacon and the hamlet of Hopewell Junction in the Town of East Fishkill. It also connects to trails such as the Riverfront Trail and future Hudson Highlands Fjord Trail in Beacon, and the William R Steinhaus Dutchess Rail Trail and Empire State Trail in Hopewell Junction (East Fishkill). 

The study will document the challenges and opportunities of constructing a rail trail, and then present several design concepts to stakeholders and the public for review and feedback. The study will ultimately produce a recommended trail concept with cost estimates. Take a survey or learn more about the proposed Beacon-Hopewell Rail Trail.

Hudson River Valley Greenway's Grant Applications Are Now Hosted on the Greenway's Online Grants Platform

Grant and sponsorship applications for all Hudson River Valley Greenway and Maurice D. Hinchey Hudson River Valley National Heritage programs, including Community/Compact Planning, Conservancy Trail, and Heritage Sponsorships are now on an online grants platform, HRVG Grants Platform. This is the only way to apply for our grants. A link to the virtual application process and detailed guidance may be found on our website.

All funding applications are required to submit grant applications on the online platform to apply for funding for all grant rounds. Applicants must register on the HRVG Grant Platform using their email address. Older applications will not be accepted.

If you have any questions or concerns, email grants@hudsongreenway.ny.gov or call us at (518) 473-3835.

Important Reminders

• Help Document New York's Weather Impacts. Learn more.

Watershed Research Projects

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the New York State Water Resources Institute (WRI) at Cornell University announced $325,994 in grant awards for 11 projects that address a range of environmental research and education needs to advance water resource and ecosystem restoration priorities for New York’s Great Lakes, Hudson River Estuary, and Mohawk River basin watersheds. Funding for these projects is provided through the State’s Environmental Protection Fund and is administered by WRI in partnership with DEC’s Great Lakes Watershed, Hudson River Estuary, and Mohawk River Basin programs.

Project grants advance the goals of the Hudson River Estuary and Mohawk River action agendas to improve river and shoreline habitats, reduce flooding, ensure sustainable fisheries, and protect water resources. The four projects were selected for funding through the WRI annual Request for Proposals. Read about these projects in the full press release.

Upcoming Events

Cultural Heritage Protection: A New Vision, A New Feeling, Last Way of Action (WEBINAR)

May 3: This webinar will share information on different kinds of disasters and challenges, as well as new technical approaches to these disasters –including building protections, operation documents, and training and awareness. Learn more.

Mid-Hudson Astronomical Association Monthly Star Party, Lake Taghkanic State Park, Ancram, NY

May 3: The Mid-Hudson Astronomical Association hosts a monthly stargazing party in the West Beach parking lot. More info.

Spring Crafts, Lyndhurst Mansion, Tarrytown, NY

May 3-5: Craft shopping for original fashions, accessories, jewelry, home decor, furniture, photography, fine art, and functional and sculptural works in ceramics, glass, metal, wood, mixed media, and more! Find out more.

1st Saturday Lighthouse Visiting Hours, Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site, Stony Point, NY

May 4: The first floor of the Lighthouse will be open and staffed with a costumed interpreter to talk about its history. Read more.

I Love My Park Day at Hubbard Lodge, Fahnestock State Park, Cold Spring, NY

May 4: Meet at the patio overlooking the Hubbard Lodge Butterfly Garden to clean up and prepare for replanting the native perennial beds. More details.

I Love My Park Day at Little Stony Point, Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, Cold Spring, NY

May 4: Join the Little Stony Point Citizens Association to help make the Hudson River Coast Line the most pristine and welcoming by picking up litter on the beaches and doing trail maintenance. Learn more.

Lecture: Reading the Constitution: Why I Chose Pragmatism, Not Textualism, Bedford Playhouse, Bedford, NY

May 7: Friends of John Jay Homestead present a lecture with The Hon. Stephen G. Breyer on his book Reading the Constitution: Why I Chose Pragmatism, Not Textualism. Find out more.

Lecture: Opening the Way – New Research and Other Items in New York’s Black Colonial History, Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site, Yonkers, NY

May 8: Join a highlights tour of this work as we commemorate both the legal end of slavery and the arrival of the first men enslaved in New Netherlands/New York. More info.

Garden Workshops and Volunteer Opportunities, Jay Heritage Center, Rye, NY

May 9: Enjoy docent-led experiences or follow a self-guided tour following QR code signs. Learn more.

Wildflower Walk, Thacher State Park, Voorheesville, NY

May 11: Celebrate spring on a walk around the Nature Center to search out wildflowers and then participate in a Watercolor Wildflowers program. Find out more.

Newburgh Volunteer Fair, Washington's Headquarters State Historic Site, Newburgh, NY

May 11: The day focuses on raising awareness about the important work being done by non-profit organizations in the Newburgh community. More details.

The Real Gilded Age: America’s Elite in the Downton Abbey Era, Staatsburgh State Historic Site, Staatsburgh, NY

May 12: This tour highlights the real-life characters and themes at Staatsburgh that parallel Downton Abbey and HBO's The Gilded Age. Learn more.

House Hunters: Cavity-Nesting Birds, Rockefeller State Park Preserve, Pleasantville, NY

May 15: Become part of our stewardship team for the day and shadow a naturalist as they perform nest inspections on a variety of breeding sites in the Rockwood Hall area. More info.

Launch of Landscape Restoration Guidebook for Planners and Practitioners (WEBINAR)

May 16: Join the virtual launch to learn how this Restoration Guidebook can effectively support restoration planners and practitioners from a distinguished panel of experts. Find out more.

Third Thursday: Bollywood Dancing Workshop and Performance, Olana State Historic Site, Hudson, NY

May 16: Learn moves to trendy and iconic Bollywood songs during this fun, beginner-friendly outdoor class and stick around for a special performance on the East Lawn. Learn more.

Pride in the Sky, Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park, Highland, NY

May 17: Check out Pride In The Sky, the first-ever nighttime LGBTQ+ pride celebration. Read more.

Pinkster!, Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site, Albany, NY

May 18: Free family event highlighting Albany's historic Pinkster celebrations that focused on African Heritage Drum workshop, dancing, music, vendors, reenactors, crafts and food. More info.

Pinkster: Joy is an Act of Resistance, Senate House State Historic Site, Kingston, NY

May 19: The Pinkster Sunday Festival returns to Senate House! Pinkster is the oldest African-American holiday in the U.S., a Dutch Pentecost tradition transformed into a joyous African celebration. Learn more.

Weaponry in the Battle of Bennington, Bennington Battlefield State Historic Site, NY

May 27: Join interpreter David Pitlyk on the hilltop for an informal discussion of artillery, shoulder arms and edged weapons. Read more.

Tuesday Trek: The Short and Scenic Route to Gertrude’s Nose, Minnewaska State ark Preserve, Kerhonkson, NY

May 28: Join an Environmental Educator, for an adventurous, six-mile hike to Gertrude's Nose and back on the same route. Find out more.

Movies on the Trail: Kung Fu Panda, Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park, Dobbs Ferry, NY

May 31: Movies on the Trail series kicks off with the rise of the dragon warrior in Kung Fu Panda! More details.

Wood Joinery in Early America, Fort Montgomery State Historic Site, Fort Montgomery, NY

June 1: Master woodworker Erik Paul will present the craft of wood joinery. Paul will demonstrate how different types of joints, moldings, and flooring were made in early America. More info.

GHHN Workshop: Deep Dive: Stressed About Pests?, Jacob Blauvelt House, New City, NY

June 6: This workshop which will introduce participants to multiple aspects of Integrated Pest Management. Learn more.

Heritage Spotlight: Top Cottage (FDR's Retreat), Dutchess County

In 1938, Roosevelt commissioned professional architect Henry Toombs to design his private retreat. All aspects of this two bedroom house accommodated his disability, from its single floor layout to the height of the light switches. When he won an unprecedented third term in 1940, Roosevelt's retirement plans were shelved, but he continued to enjoy Top Cottage often bringing dignitaries there. Among those who enjoyed the commanding Hudson Valley views from its front porch were England's King George VI and Queen Elizabeth to whom the president served hot dogs. Top Cottage is on of only two buildings designed by a sitting U.S. President (Thomas Jefferson's Popular Forest is the other). Today Top Cottage contains a mix of period pieces and reproductions matching the furnishings that were in the house at the time of Roosevelt's death in 1945. Learn more.

Project Spotlight: Heritage Trail Parking Lot and Paving Project in Chester

Orange County received a Conservancy Trail Grant to upgrade the Heritage Trail Parking Lot at the Chester Train Station. The existing parking area was gravel with undefined limits and undefined parking spaces. The available parking for access to the Heritage Trail was not being maximized and maintenance of the gravel lot became a burden. The entire lot and two access points onto the trail were overlayed with approximately 3 inches of top course asphalt and striped to define parking This upgrade allowed for a safe parking area for trail users and eliminated potential hazards in the lot and at the access points to the trail. In addition, it allowed for the parking capacity to increase from approximately 11 spaces to 21 spaces. The Orange County Heritage Trail is a 10-foot wide trail on the right-of-way of the former Erie Railroad. When completed, the trail will extend from the City of Middletown to the Village of Harriman. The trail features sections of both asphalt and limestone surface. The current 19.5-mile trail winds through a bird/wildlife sanctuary, historic landmarks, murmuring streams, rolling meadows, and friendly communities. Learn more.

Smart Plant Selections Can Reduce Pesticide Use

Cool season grasses such as tall and fine fescues and perennial rye grass are appropriate for the Northeast. Choose fescues for shadier areas. Learn more.

Grant and Funding Opportunities

Greenway Conservancy Trail Grant Program

This grant program is dedicated to funding recreational trail projects. Special consideration is given to projects that seek to implement the goals of the Greenway Trail Program. The upcoming deadlines for applications are due on HRVG's Online Grants Platform by May 3, 2024, and September 6, 2024. More details.

Hudson River Valley Greenway Community Grant Program

Matching grants are available for Greenway Communities and Greenway Compact Communities. The upcoming deadlines for applications this year are due on HRVG's Online Grants Platform by May 3, 2024, and September 6, 2024. More info.

National Heritage Area Sponsorships Available

The Maurice D. Hinchey Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area (HRVNHA) will partner with various organizations to sponsor programs and events that reinforce the Heritage Area’s mission. While complimenting the mission of the Heritage Area, cultural, heritage, and recreational events deliver significant tourism and economic benefits to communities, and encourage local and regional partnerships. Municipalities and nonprofit 501(c)3 organizations located within the HRVNHA are eligible to apply. Applications are available on HRVG's Online Grants Platform. For more information, please contact Dan Jeanson at daniel.jeanson@hudsongreenway.ny.gov or 518-473-3835.

Northern Border Regional Commission Grant Program 

The Catalyst Program is designed to stimulate economic growth and inspire partnerships that improve rural economic vitality across the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) four-state region. The Catalyst Program supports a broad range of economic development initiatives that will: modernize and expand water and wastewater systems; revitalize transportation infrastructure; establish workforce development programs and facilities; grow outdoor recreation infrastructure and economies; and construct new childcare and healthcare facilities. Only available in Rensselaer, Saratoga, and Washington County. The next pre-application deadline is September 6, and full application deadlines are due on May 3 and October 18. More info.

NYSP2I 2024-2025 Community Grants Program 

Each year, NYSP2I awards funding to support projects that raise awareness and understanding and lead to the implementation of pollution prevention practices and/or behaviors at the local level to improve the health, environmental quality, and economic vitality of communities in New York State. Deadline: May 3, 2024. More details.

U.S. DOT Multimodal Project Discretionary Grant Program (MPDG) 

the Department of Transportation published a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) announcing $5.1 Billion in MPDG funding. The funds are split into three categories,$1.7 Billion is available for the National Infrastructure Project Assitance program, $2.7 Billion is available for the Infrastructure for Rebuilding America program, and $780 Million for the Rural Surface Transportation Grant program. Deadline: May 6, 2024. More info.

NYSCA/GHHN Preservation Supplies Grant

This grant provides funds to purchase collection management supplies for museums, historical, and cultural organizations in New York State. Deadline: May 31, 2024. Learn more.

NYSCA/GHHN Site Assessment Grant

This opportunity is available through a partnership between the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) and Greater Hudson Heritage Network (GHHN) which will provide support for half-day museum site assessments. Deadline: May 31, 2024. More info.

Candevra Foundation Grant Program

The Candreva Environmental Foundation is a New York state-based organization that provides seed money for local environmental education initiatives and projects that engage young people in environmental service. Awards of up to $500 can be used for materials, printing costs, student and teacher travel, communication costs, and other project-related expenses. Grants are limited to Westchester and Putnam Counties. Deadline: June 1, 2024. Find out more.

Water Infrastructure Improvement & Intermunicipal Grants

The New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation is offering $325 million in grants for clean and drinking water projects to selected municipalities with infrastructure projects that protect public health and/or water quality. EFC and the NYS Department of Health will evaluate all applications for projects received by the due date based on factors including protection of public health and water quality; median household income; population served; governmental and community support; environmental justice considerations; and the readiness of the project to proceed. Deadline: June 14, 2024. More details.

Active Transportation Infrastructure Investment Program (ATIIP).

This unique program, administered by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), strategically invests in projects that connect active transportation networks and spines, accelerating local and regional plans to create safe and convenient walking and biking routes to everyday destinations and to fill gaps between communities. $45 million is available for active transportation projects or groups of projects with a total cost of at least $15 million or planning and design grants with a total cost of at least $100,000. Deadline: June 17, 2024. Read more.

2023 NYSCA/GHHN Conservation Treatment Grants

Support for treatment procedures by professional conservators to aid in stabilizing and preserving objects in collections of museums, historical, and cultural organizations in New York State. Deadline: September 3, 2024. Find out more.

Inflation Reduction Act Community Change Grants Program

The EPA is accepting applications on a rolling basis for $2 billion in Inflation Reduction Act funding available to support community-driven projects that build capacity for communities to tackle environmental and climate justice challenges, strengthen their climate resilience, and advance clean energy. Applications will be accepted until November 21, 2024. Learn more.

The Peter H. Brink Leadership Fund

The Peter H. Brink Leadership Fund helps to build the capacity of existing preservation organizations and encourages collaboration among these organizations by providing grants for mentoring and other peer-to-peer and direct organizational development and learning opportunities. More info.

Extreme Terrain’s Clean Trail Grant Program

This program will provide eligible groups the opportunity to apply for a grant to fund their next trail improvement-related project, which could range from trail clean-up, trail restoration, trail expansion, to name a few. Learn more.

Veterans Emergency Housing Program

New York State’s Veterans Emergency Housing Program provides short-term

assistance for Veterans who face a current housing hardship and lack sufficient

personal funds to resolve the hardship. Eligible Veterans can receive up to $2,000

per calendar year to assist with qualifying housing needs. More details.

New York State Assembly Grants Action News 

State, federal, and private grant information from the New York State Assembly. More info.